An Oscar-winning producer of Titanic and Avatar has sadly died aged 63, with tributes flooding in for the “extraordinary talented” artist.
Jon Landau worked on three of the highest-grossing films of all time before his death, which has sadly been confirmed by his son. No cause of death has been given at this time.
Jon was James Cameron’s long-term producing partner, also working as Chief Operating Officer of his production company Lightstorm Entertainment. Along with producing Avatar and its 2022 sequel The Way of Water, Landau also worked on Alita: Battle Angel and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
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Weta FX, the visual effects house for the Avatar films, released a statement upon Jon’s death which read: “We speak for the entire Weta FX team when we say we are devastated by the loss of Jon Landau. Jon was not only a monumental figure in the film industry but also a cherished collaborator and friend.
“Jon brought unparalleled passion to the projects he worked on and his influence will continue to inspire for years to come. Our deepest condolences are with Jon's family and loved ones, as well as Jim (Cameron) and the Lightstorm Entertainment team."
Visual effects supervisor on the Avatar movies Joe Letteri added: “I am heartbroken at the loss of our friend Jon Landau. He was an amazing and generous man, and a world-class film-maker who leaves a legacy that will last for generations.
"On behalf of all of us at Weta FX, it was an honour to work beside him. His dedication to the art of film-making inspired us every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones."
Legendary director James Cameron also released its own emotional statement, praising Jon’s “zany humour” and “personal magnetism”. It read: “The Avatar family grieves the loss of our friend and leader, Jon Landau. His zany humour, personal magnetism, great generosity of spirit and fierce will have held the centre of our Avatar universe for almost two decades.
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“His legacy is not just the films he produced, but the personal example he set — indomitable, caring, inclusive, tireless, insightful and utterly unique. He produced great films, not by wielding power but by spreading warmth and the joy of making cinema.
“He inspired us all to be and to bring our best, every day. I have lost a dear friend, and my closest collaborator of 31 years. A part of myself has been torn away.”
